Win Wednesday – Family, Firsts & So Much Love
Bleu Bells, this week has been beyond incredible for me and Sariah! As a first-time mom living far from family in Houston, I often feel like I’m navigating motherhood solo. But in the last couple of weeks, both my mom (all the way from Cleveland) and my dad (in Chicago) showed up big time, reminding me that love can bridge any distance—or divorce. Even though my parents live separately and have their own lives, they came together to surround Sariah (and me!) with unconditional support. It warms my heart to see my little girl spending quality time with both of them—experiencing each of their unique personalities, traditions, and love.
Sariah’s week of firsts was nothing short of magical:
Her first plane ride to Chicago, where fellow mothers on the flight stepped in to help—an unexpected blessing that made traveling solo with a baby so much easier.
Milk wasted
Her first aquarium visit, mesmerized by colorful fish and sea creatures at the Shedd Aquarium.
Her first rodeo, filled with new sights, sounds, and (of course) rodeo-style treats.
• Her first hibachi dinner, where she was totally captivated by the flying spatulas and onion volcano!
Yet, the biggest win for me was seeing Sariah bond with her grandparents on both sides. My mom went all out—cooking, shopping, and spoiling her grandbaby rotten. My dad took her on botanical and aquarium adventures, feeding her while she danced to Gracie’s Corner. It was a beautiful reminder that even though I don’t have my parents close by, their love for Sariah knows no boundaries. Watching my daughter grow up knowing both sides of her family—despite distance and divorce—means everything to me. It’s moments like these that I realize: we may not have the “perfect” family setup, but we have real love, and that’s worth celebrating.
This week’s Win Wednesday is dedicated to family ties that never fade, no matter where life takes us.